We have something exciting we want to share with all of you. In an effort to be faithful stewards with what God has entrusted us with, we want to tell you about a new service we are using to help with our calling of being generous givers. In 2 Corinthians Paul demonstrates the call of stewardship to the Church in support of Macedonian believers. He says these words:
“The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously. Each person should do as he has decided in his heart—not out of regret or out of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make every grace overflow in you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work.” -2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (HCSB)
We now offer online giving to our congregation. The hope and prayer of our Consistory is that offering online giving will allow us to accomplish a couple of things. First, it will provide the flexibility for our members to give how they want to, regardless of day or time. You’ll be able to give your gifts and offerings in several different ways. We have a link on our website where you can give. Part of the flexibility we are giving you is the payment method you use to give.
Of course, you’ll still be able to give via a check, even through our online giving platform. You can also give with a credit or debit card. Second, it will help all of us better develop a habit of giving regularly. Online giving is going to help us be better stewards by affording you the opportunity to give on a regular basis. You will be able to set up recurring gifts and offerings.
How many of you pay bills online? This is much the same, but it’s not just paying a bill. It’s being obedient to God and fulfilling what He calls us to do.
Pray about how God is calling you to give and be a faithful and obedient steward in our mission of making disciples. Giving is truly a worship experience, and online giving can enrich that experience. Without it, we may miss out on an incredible way of becoming more like Christ, both as individuals and as members of His Church.
We love our church. We love our people. We love the Body of Christ that St. John’s UCC has represented for over 150 years. And we love the opportunity to be faithful in our gifts and offerings to Him. As Paul reminds us, God loves a cheerful giver.
Blessings,
St. John’s United Church of Christ Consistory
Sarah Schneewind, Karen Otto, DuWayne Schmitz, Penny Rolf, Nell Akre, Michelle Bachmann and Pastor Cathy Kolwey
St. John's United Church of Christ 
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